Protective orders. Obtaining a protective order may or may not be helpful. Most domestic violence research indicates that such orders protect abused women.13 This is important because stalking by a former intimate partner often occurs in relationships characterized by domestic violence.14 In addition to potentially preventing stalking behavior, a protective order may provide legal evidence of the course of stalking, as well as document a “fearful victim,” which is required by law to obtain a criminal conviction.
No conclusive studies have investigated the effectiveness of protective orders specifically related to stalkers, so consider the stalker’s reaction to previous orders.15 Counsel a victim who obtains a protective order against a former intimate partner to avoid developing a false sense of security. Rejected stalkers who have considerable emotional investment in the relationship may not be deterred by the threat of criminal sanctions. Furthermore, stalkers who are psychotic may misperceive and disregard criminal injunctions. In rare cases, a protective order may escalate stalking and violence.15
Dramatic moments. Advise a victim to remain vigilant during “dramatic moments” when violence risk may be especially heightened.15 These include:
- arrests
- issuance of protective orders
- court hearings
- custody hearings
- anniversary dates
- family-oriented holidays.
Encourage a victim who is especially concerned about an impending dramatic moment to prepare by:
- arranging to be out of town on that date
- notifying law enforcement and victim advocates.
Anti-stalking teams: an effective approach
A multidisciplinary approach is the most effective way to reduce stalking violence risk. In addition to mental health professionals, an effective team usually includes law enforcement and criminal justice personnel, attorneys, security specialists/private investigators, victim advocates, and the victim and his or her social network.
The victim can increase the chances that officials will view his or her case as a priority by establishing rapport with the senior police official and district attorney assigned to the case.10,11 Such rapport also allows the victim to learn about the laws and resources available for managing stalking risk.
A multidisciplinary team can assess and manage risk, provide education, and support victims. One well-established anti-stalking team—the San Diego Stalking Strike Force—meets monthly to evaluate cases.12 Members also are on-call for emergencies. By exchanging information monthly, the case manager and parole agent enhance stalker supervision.
In court, advocacy is critical. The consultant psychiatrist or victim advocate can educate the court that stalking is not a “lovers’ spat” (in the case of the rejected stalker) or mere nuisance behavior (in the case of other stalker types). The victim and psychiatrist may need to mobilize resources and promote collaboration among professionals in communities that do not have advocates or anti-stalking services.
Treating victims’ symptoms
As a result of the risks they face, stalking victims often suffer significant “social damage.” To cope with being stalked, many victims must make substantial life changes, such as relocating or finding new employment. They may need to restrict outings, adapt security measures, and take time off from work.16 This social damage and anxiety may predispose them to substance abuse.17
Stalking victims also experience emotional distress.3,18 They commonly report symptoms of anxiety disorders, in particular PTSD, and one-quarter experience depression and suicidal ruminations.19 Victims who perceive their stalking as severe report elevated levels of helplessness, anxiety, PTSD, and depression.20
Few studies focus on the duration of victims’ symptoms or their successful treatment.21 Mullen8 has recommended a comprehensive approach that includes education, supportive counseling, psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy. In particular, cognitive-oriented therapy can target common issues such as anxiety leading to feelings of loss of control and associated avoidance. Pharmacotherapy for anxiety or depressive symptoms follows recommended treatment guidelines.
Because the stalking and associated stress may have an adverse impact on the victim’s personal relationships, partner and family therapy may be necessary. Support organizations for stalking victims, such as Survivors of Stalking, can provide education, safety information, and emotional support.